Ironically, more often than not the best way to create something fresh is by digging deep into the past. For quirky and charming orchestral pop artist/composer Nozart, this means smoothly blending classically inspired compositions with his own indie-pop vocals. To some this premise may seem gimmicky at first (after all, how many terrible classical music/rock hybrids have we experienced already?), but his music is convincing in its ambition and execution. His compositions, which include piano, brass, wind, and percussion, are intricate but also minimalist, and definitely steer clear of any pompousness. This is key because it allows Nozart's vocals enough space in each track to turn them into "songs" rather than orchestral pieces that happen to include vocals.  Nozart certainly has the potential to bridge the chasm between avant and mainstream with his uniquely catchy track "Just Let it Go." Don't miss his debut live performance at Mercury Lounge on July 8. — Henry Solotaroff-Webber

We added this song to The Deli's playlist of Best songs by emerging NYC artists - check it out!

Generally uneasy and slyly experimental, when Rich Ruth's Thruster settles down for a moment, it likes to ease into a minimal funky groove like if Parliament had temporarily replaced George Clinton with a Gameboy. But that's only one sound of many to be found here—there's off-kilter folk, off-kilter new wave, off-kilter world influences, and other assorted sounds that generally leave the kilter at home, whatever that is in the first place. It's an enjoyable listen all the way through, sparse but never short on new ideas, and you can give it a listen below. -Austin Phy

Heavily inspired by a life of vivid dreaming, Brooklyn's Corbu take the concept of "Dream Pop" to the extreme, expressing through their music their interpreted realities of the 'sleep-world' . The band just released single 'Polygon Forest' (streaming) off of their soon to be released studio album, 'Crayon Soul'. The track incorporates tribal beats, several layers of synths and the ethereal, psychedelic leaning vocals of lead singer Jonathan Graves. Intrigued by Corbu's sound, we asked him to talk about the band's synths and their set up in this Delicious Audio feature.

Brittany Campbell is the artist people dream to be. Not only did she produce her own (third) album "Heroes" and animate the video for the title track (streaming), she is also the co-host of a monthly event at Skate Brooklyn  called Tomboi (pictured) which showcases and empowers women artists. Her Jamaican-influenced pop-soul anthems mix in a touch of hip hop and punk ethos make for a compelling live performance; members of the crowd who don’t dance stand enthralled in the musicianship of her live band, and the unbridled charisma of the spunky frontwoman. Though Tomboi  implies the infiltration of traditionally male roles, the strength of Brittany and her sistren is a class of its own. - BrokeMC, photo by Meena Ziabari